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The siren call of the Red Centre has never been stronger. This April, Uluṟu made history with the launch of the world’s “oldest walk,” inviting travellers to trek and sleep within the national park for the very first time. Now, the momentum continues with the unveiling of plans for a brand-new desert-luxe lodge, set to open adjacent to the sacred monolith in early 2028.
Australian-born luxury lodge brand Beckons has secured approval to develop the intimate nine-suite retreat, following ecological, heritage and sacred-site assessments by the Traditional Aṉangu Land Owners. The bucket-list stay marks the newest addition to Beckons’ ultra-luxe portfolio, joining globally acclaimed icons such as Southern Ocean Lodge, Longitude 131°, Capella Lodge and Silky Oaks.
So, what’s in store? While the name is yet to be revealed, the exclusive lodge will feature eight Desert Suites and one premium Desert Pavilion – each fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows framing uninterrupted views of Uluṟu. Outside, private plunge pools and daybeds will offer front-row seats to the 500-million-year-old landscape, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the spectacular shifting colours from sunrise to sunset. Talk about serious bucket-list stuff!
Designed by Tasmanian-based JAWS Architects, the lodge will flow seamlessly with the natural contours of the desert terrain. The build will honour the natural environment through its material palette, featuring ironbark timbers, earth walls, Corten steel and red marble from the Pilbara region. As a tribute to time and place, each suite will also centre around a bespoke artwork commissioned from a local artist interpreting the Kungkarangkalpa (Seven Sisters) – a spiritually significant Aṉangu Creation story mapped in the stars above the Central and Western Deserts.
As a more intimate sibling to the nearby Longitude 131°, this boutique offering is set to become the closest luxury accommodation to Uluṟu. Like its sister properties, the retreat will house a restaurant, lounge, bar, wine cellar and boutique, plus an infinity pool with spectacular views of the ancient desert and star-filled skies.
Construction of the new lodge is set to commence in the coming months, with an estimated opening in early 2028. Stay tuned!